Lots of Love in February - Are you Feeling Good?

Written By: Nicole Gibson

Who is done with winter? Those of you out there who love winter, I commend you, but for many of us by February we are tired of the cold, icy sidewalks, snow-covered roads, and gray. The enchantment of winter around the holidays in December has long worn off and we are left with this feeling of impatiently waiting for spring to arrive, while knowing that in Calgary winter could easily continue into April.

It is no wonder that so many people experience feelings of sadness, irritability, and low energy that can range from the “winter blues” to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression. It can be extremely frustrating to feel this way, and unless you can up and move to a sunny, tropical location, winter comes around every year- meaning you also have to deal with it every year.

Taking care of our mental health is important so there is absolutely no shame in getting help. If you feel you are experiencing major depression or SAD, I encourage you to reach out for help from a professional. However, there are still some lifestyle habits we can change that can positively impact our mood, boost our energy, and alleviate some of those “winter blues” feelings.

First, incorporate physical activity into your routine. Exercise has been shown to boost mood and lessen feelings of stress. I always think of the quote from Legally Blonde, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people don’t shoot their husbands. They just don’t.” You don’t have to do intense workouts every day to reap the benefits. Even just walking can help.

Second, get outside whenever possible. I know, I absolutely hate being cold, but being outside getting natural daylight regularly, particularly midday when the sun is shining most, can help improve your mood and regulate your circadian rhythm. If you can’t get outside, try sitting next to a window where the sun is streaming in or consider buying a blue light (SAD light) to turn on in the mornings to boost your mood.

Third, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, which means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. This, along with getting sunshine, can help our internal body clock stay regulated and improve our energy levels.

Fourth, try a new hobby or learn a new skill. It seems easier to find activities to do in the other seasons, but if you have a hobby it can give you something to look forward to, concentrate on, and keep your mind active. It can also provide a social outlet, since it seems easy to hibernate and avoid people through the winter.

Last, but definitely not least, prioritize your nutrition. When we are feeling down it is natural to want to turn to comfort foods. But having a diet lacking in nutrients can be a detriment to both your physical and mental health.

Check in later this month when we will share specific foods to include to support your mental health in the depths of winter. Remember, you are not alone if you feel down and lethargic through the winter, but making some healthy lifestyle changes can help. And this list is by no means exhaustive so we’d love to hear some strategies you use. Comment below on what you do to feel good in the winter.

Want to get even healthier? Are you dealing with some winter blues? Could you use some support figuring out what foods will help boost your energy, motivation and mental wellness? Curious about how health coaching can help you make healthy changes? Let’s talk! Schedule an initial complimentary consultation with us today—or pass this offer on to someone you care about! Visit www.noshoesnutrition.com and sign up for a FREE consultation.  We work with people from all over the world individually or in groups so don’t let anything hold you back!